Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean addressed the press at the Chisinau Power Substation in Moldova on May 29, 2024. The event highlighted the United States' ongoing support for Moldova, particularly in energy security.
Prime Minister Recean, speaking through an interpreter, acknowledged the U.S.'s assistance amidst ongoing aggression from the Kremlin in Ukraine. He announced a new project involving an $85 million investment as part of a broader $300 million pledge from the previous year. This investment aims to bolster Moldova's energy security, addressing potential disruptions to the public grid caused by domestic issues or bombings affecting Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
Recalling past support, Recean noted that similar funding had previously helped offset high energy costs for Moldovan citizens. He expressed gratitude to the United States and its people for their continued support.
Beyond energy, Recean emphasized U.S. contributions to various sectors in Moldova, including justice reform, anti-corruption efforts, economic development, winemaking, IT, and tourism through USAID programs. He thanked local embassy and USAID teams for their dedication.
Reaffirming Moldova's strategic objective to join the European Union, Recean highlighted U.S. support in transforming Moldova into a robust member of the European community.
Secretary Blinken underscored the United States' commitment to Moldova's sovereignty and success as a democratic nation integrated with Europe and the West. Highlighting Russia's weaponization of energy during its war against Ukraine, Blinken stressed the importance of building greater energy independence and security for Moldova.
Blinken praised USAID's work in enhancing Moldova's infrastructure with large-scale batteries for energy storage. This initiative aims to stabilize Moldova’s grid, manage fluctuations, enhance renewable energy use, connect better with Europe’s grid, and integrate European energy markets.
The U.S.'s $85 million commitment is expected to attract further private sector investment and international contributions to strengthen Moldova’s capacity. Additionally, projects are underway to improve high-voltage transmission lines between Moldova and Romania.
Blinken emphasized that these efforts align with broader European trends towards reducing dependence on Russian energy since Russia's aggression against Ukraine began over two years ago. The aim is to establish a secure and independent energy future for Moldova that supports its democratic and economic aspirations.
"Thank you very much," concluded Blinken before receiving applause alongside Prime Minister Recean.
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